PEOPLE SKILLS
So much time is spent on marketing and internal office systems that a necessary growth skill is often overlooked. Although People Skills deals mostly with common sense, it is worth reminding ourselves of the proper protocol. We have all encountered situations where this important element was neglected and “deals” were lost:
- Be Respectful: You do not have to agree with other people’s ideas, views, or suggestions, but you owe them the courtesy of at least listening to what they have to say.
- Keep your promise: You are only as good as your word. Sometimes a promise is made to end a conversation without any intent to perform.
- Think before you speak: In the heat of a conversation be it from excitement or anger, words are spoken before any thought is given to them. This includes both the spoken and written word; words written or spoken without the proper thought may come back to haunt you. Sometimes the best thing you can say is “nothing.”
- Keep your eyes and ears open: Paying attention to what is going on around you allows you to notice what is important to others.
- Good happenings may take time: Patience is a virtue that is often overlooked in the highly, rushed technical world we live in. Allow others to “move” at their own, comfortable pace.
- Keep a happy face: Your attitude is a powerful tool in dealing with customers and prospects. People know when you are sincere and are truly offering a benefit, not just trying to make a sale. Start every encounter with a smile on your face.
- Ongoing learning: Stay up to date on what is happening in your industry, your community, the economy and new innovations in all fields. By being aware of what is going on that may affect a prospect or customer shows that you care.
- Perform to the best of your ability: Any undertaking in all aspects of your life should be undertaken with the idea that you will do your best to accomplish it.
- Do the unexpected: Always try to create a WOW with everyone you meet. Help others when they least expect it. Give and do more that you promised.
Every small business owner is first, in the people business. These skills must be applied to everyone you meet, both friends and enemies, customers, or beggars.
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Tips & Advice by Nick Petra, CFP – Founder of Strategic Duck and BizQuack
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